How to Clean Dust Mites from Pillows

Pillows can contain thousands of dust mites.

Dust mites are microscope bugs that live in warm, moist environments, feeding on dead skin flakes shed by humans and pets. Beds are the most populated place for dust mites; millions of dust mites can reside in a typical mattress. Pillows, bedroom carpet and upholstery also contain thousands of dust mites. Dust mites are not very harmful to humans, but they can cause allergic reactions. Fortunately, there are simple techniques effective at removing dust mites from pillows.

Things You'll Need

• Washing machine
• Laundry detergent
• Cooking thermometer
• Dryer
• Plastic pillow cover

Instructions

1. Remove the pillow from the bed. Set your washing machine to the hottest water setting, and add detergent as you normally would.

2. Place a cooking thermometer in the hot water to test the temperature. The water in the machine should be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to thoroughly kill the dust mites.

3. Place the pillow in the washing machine to be washed. Once the wash cycle is complete, dry the pillow in the dryer.

4. Place the pillow in a plastic pillow cover. Plastic pillow covers prevent dust mites from residing in pillows, thus reducing the possibility of allergic reactions.

5. Reduce the temperature in your bedroom to below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments over 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips & Warnings

• If your pillow cannot be washed in hot water, place it in the freezer for two days. Freezing temperatures will kill dust mites.

• Wash your bed sheets and blankets in hot water as well.

• A dehumidifier can reduce dust mites in your bedroom.

References

• Environment, Health And Safety Online: Dust Mites: Everything You Might Not Want To Know!
• Good Housekeeping: Rid Your House Of Unwanted Mites